Frank Beard, the historic drummer for Texan blues rock trio ZZ Top, has died at the age of 77 at his ranch in Richmond, Texas. The group announced his death on Tuesday, August 18, stating that he passed away while in hospice care surrounded by members of his family.
The musician had recently stopped touring with his formation due to health problems that were not specified. His passing marks the loss of a foundational rhythm player who was present from the very beginning of the group in 1969.
Tributes to an innovative drummer
Billy Gibbons, guitarist and lead singer of the trio, paid tribute to his long-time bandmate following the news. Gibbons said that the world had lost one of the most naturally innovative drummers in music, as well as a great and true son of Texas.
Gibbons added that Beard's signature drum rhythm played an essential role in keeping ZZ Top at the top throughout their long career.
Formed in Houston in 1969, ZZ Top became an iconic fixture of American rock music, propelled by major hits such as La Grange, Gimme All Your Lovin', and Sharp Dressed Man.
The band was visually recognizable by the trademark long beards worn by Gibbons and bassist Dusty Hill. Hill passed away in 2021 and was replaced by Elwood Francis, who had long served as a technician for the group.
Tour cancellations and upcoming dates
The death of Beard has resulted in the cancellation of ZZ Top concerts scheduled for Tuesday night in Salt Lake City, Utah, and Wednesday in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The group announced it will resume its current schedule, titled The Big One! Tour, this weekend with two concerts at Austin City Limits. The Austin venue was one of Beard's favorite places to perform, in a city that had become like a second home to him.
